We wanted to do a public service announcement surrounding the issue of spending time with family. Aidan and I felt that kids in today's world often place technology and other objects above their own family members. So, this issue was close to our heart and we drafted a short three-page script. We wanted to describe the guilt a kid felt after his grandparents died. He spent too much time with other things and not with family, so he deeply regrets it.
Process
Pre-Production: We went through several ideas, ranging from hunting to family. Something close to heart was a lot better. Aidan and I wrote the script and he created a storyboard. Emily casted Logan as our main actor.
Production: We filmed at Katie's grandparent's house for around four hours on a snowy night. The filming process was rather smooth, with Aidan working as the director and Katie cinematographer. Juan was the gaffer and I could be considered the 1st AD. Thomas was the PA/sound guy. The shots that took the longest were the ones with the grandparents. It was hard to communicate with them the emotions we wanted them to convey. Logan was on point every time with his delivery, and I dare say that we had him re-do the lines three or four times.
Post-Production: Emily edited it all in a span of around two days, but it was at least three or four before we were finally satisfied. Looking back, the final product completely changed after our suggestions and several re-edits. The music was definitely a major factor in pulling the heart strings, and we had to place the highs and lows of the music in certain points to accomplish that.
1st AD/Writer/Technical/Professional
Aidan and I worked on the original concept for several days, wanting to really create a serious PSA. The final three pages of script were completed around two days before filming. On set, I worked as 1st AD to help Aidan with the lighting, placement, and movement of the shots. All the things a first AD would do. I didn't learn much new as far as Premiere, as I wasn't editing, but I worked with a new camera and realized the importance of lighting. As far as professional skills, communication was a large struggle in this project. Aidan wasn't the best in communicating his ideas, so I provided support. Technical skills were used in working with Katie's camera (as opposed to a school 80D). Leadership was used in directing their grandparents to produce certain emotions. Collaboration... well, collaboration all around. Our group really gelled well together and didn't have any conflicts. We also completed the project on time.
Different/Same
We could stand to add more b-roll shots in the beginning, as I sort of felt the intro dragged on a bit. Also, the ending shot could have been more smooth, but the DIY filmmaking we implemented with a cardboard box sufficed at the moment. As for keeping things the same, most of all the video I would keep the same. 99% of my audience that I've brought this project to has either A. cried or B. said it was very powerful. And THAT's powerful.
Experiences/Conclusion
Getting to work with new faces on each and every project has really shaped my style. Every video this year has been different. I realized the importance of lighting (I feel the lighting was very strong as well as cinematography). I also learned about the importance of being well-rounded when it comes to film. No matter the role, you will always have to implement other aspects of other roles into your own. I loved this project, and it has been my favorite thus far. Stand By Me is in second.
1. We were to complete a 30 second to 1 minute commercial advertising a product of our choice.
2. Since this video was short, it took around a week and a half.
3. We faced challenges cutting down the video! It was originally 1:20. We needed to get it close to 1 minute.
4. I learned how to tell a short story in 1 minute or less, which is a valuable skill. I also learned about the importance of music and graphics!
5. We were given feedback on the coloring... as to show the toothbrush better. Other than that, it was pretty well-received!
6. We would change the lighting a little bit. For me personally, I would get to the point quicker.
7. I loved this project as it was a quick one. I met knew people along the way and wasn't stressed.
Music Video
1. We were to create a music video to the song of our choosing. The time limit was a little lenient.
2. This was a tougher project, so it took around 2 weeks.
3. Oh man... we had a lot of setbacks on this one. When we were getting the "golden shot" with the silhouettes, the SD card didn't work and we ended up not being able to shoot that day. We also had scheduling conflicts with sports and work.
4. I learned how to tell a cohesive story through the use of music. I feel that our tune really enhanced the old feel of the video and brought a sort of charm as well. I also learned how to (somewhat) act, as this was one of the first times I was in front of the camera.
5. Almost nobody had a problem with it, except for Aidan's watch and my shoes not matching the time period. Other than that, it was amazingly well-accepted!
6. We would change the watch and shoes. Maybe more close-ups! There becomes a point where you simply can't make anymore changes, but the apparel is definitely one of them.
7. This project has been my favorite to film thus far. Was it because we didn't need to worry about sound? Ha, maybe... But I also just loved the music and style of the video. It was a clean look overall.
Short Film
1. We were to create a short film, meant to be around 5 to 7 minutes. Telling a solid story can, well, be somewhat difficult.
2. Well dang. This took nearly 3 weeks to complete, as our group decided to take on a massive script, running 30 pages.
3. Many many challenges. It doesn't get easier, folks. Actor problems, scheduling problems, editing problems, you name it. We barely had our first act done by the time that the deadline came around.
4. I learned new camera techniques and technical aspects! For example, lenses, lighting, that sort. I also was able to collaborate with the more experienced, so that's always helpful, yeah?
5. We were given feedback on the audio and black spaces. Hey, I agree. Aidan and I specifically mentioned these things to Brett. But, it's his short film. I would want to do the same if it was my baby. So I let that argument rest.
6. We would heighten the audio, as well as cut black spaces. I loved the music, though. Well done.
7. This project was definitely the toughest, but I can't say I didn't learn anything. I mean, it looked good. That's one aspect of film, though, and storytelling is a large factor that we didn't quite have down in this one.
Time Usage
1. I would say that I stay mostly productive. Even if there are dead moments where I have nothing to do, I talk about movies or write down my ideas for a new short film I would like to do. Or, better yet, a feature film.
2. Like I mentioned, I would often collaborate with Aidan, Thomas, and them lot to get a video idea together. I've done this often. Even on the day of... ha. Improvisation! I've been working on a short film idea with Aidan for a while now and have started on a feature film with him.
3. Outside of class, I finished writing my first feature film (113 pages), titled Smuggler's Blues. Watch out box office. I also completed a music video for my mom's school and have created my own show, starring Thomas and Aidan. I've been busy, you could say.
Strength/Improvements
Strength: I'd like to say that I'm a good writer. Only when I want to be, though. When I'm motivated, you could say. I love cranking out screenplay after screenplay. I would also say that I am a decent editor. Again though, there's a catch to this. I have actually found that I only really like editing when it's my own video. I learned this from "Zeit". If you are editing your own project, YOU only really know how it's supposed to go. So you'll make it good, and you'll be motivated. Otherwise, you don't care much and editing is often difficult. Don't get me wrong. I love editing! But only when it's my own film. That's when I go crazy. I also feel that I am good with the camera. On "Stand By Me", 90% of the film was my camera work. I like to be an all-around guy, dabbling in as much areas as possible. I think it helps to better understand each crew member and how you can help direct them later on. Catchin' my drift?
Weaknesses: Writing. We all make a joke about the 24 hour film fest. Since I was under pressure during that time, I wrote a line that was so bad it ended up funny. So in reality, I'm only joking about my writing. Maybe writing under pressure, you could say. Another weakness would be using After Effects and efficient planning. Of course, I've never really had the desire to do anything in After Effects, so I suppose that is out the question. Regarding planning, though, what I mean by that is storyboards and shot lists... jeez. In German, they would say "langweilig". Boring. However, having a storyboard really helped our group in "Stand By Me", so I can't completely knock that. All I'm trying to get across is, I severely dislike storyboards, shot lists, call sheets, and the like. I'm a creative person, or so I like to believe. Not a robot. Not a businessman.
Guest Speakers
1. Gordon Lamb: I learned that it is illegal to shoot on railroads. Also learned that film moves smoother without all the "mundane" shots. And I agree. Every shot should matter. Every one should bring a new piece to the puzzle.
2. Brandon Priest: I learned that you don't have to be older to start a business and be successful. Brandon's business is full of young guys, trying to find their way in life. I also learned how big of a role social media plays in our everyday lives. Especially for advertising.
3. Drew Conners: Best speaker. Even though I hadn't known Drew prior to that day, he felt like one of our own. He had a great presentation, and underlined the importance of characters in a film. I will definitely focus more on characters and their backgrounds before putting my cursor in Celtx.
UPM Role
Like I said, I don't necessarily function like a robot. I'm not a huge fan of mindless work such as storyboards and call sheets. But, everything happens for a reason, and that's alright. What I'd really like to do is have an influence on the actors, script, or shots. Something of the sort. Creativity. Yet, if I'm called upon to create call sheets and be the back-up guy to someone, I'll try my very best to execute that. Even if I don't see it now, I know that having this role will benefit me down the road. The UPM works with the directors and manages the non-existent budget of the film. They also work on call sheets, every kid's dream. I'd like to have an influence on the set of some sort, if possible. I've been thrown behind the covers for the past couple of projects, even if it doesn't seem like it. To be needed is all anyone can ask for.
Summary
1. Favorite part hands-down was creating my show, "The Green Screen Show". It displays who I am, my editing style, and what making a video with friends is all about. I also really enjoyed "Stand By Me" and all of what it had to bring.
2. I would change every single one of my projects if I could; especially "Zeit". They say not to rest until you've done your absolute best work. Next semester, I will change my work habit regarding independent projects. I haven't made enough. I simply haven't. Maybe it's my fault that I haven't had the time, but I need to get on the stick. I plan to make several independent videos next semester, whether it's "The Green Screen Show Episode 2" or another short film.
3. I can now say that I have closer connections with everyone in the classroom. At the start of the year, I was a little offset. Now, though, I have confidence in saying that I can speak to every single one of them without worrying about judgement. I also learned a ton of new camera techniques and aspects, as well as editing stuff.
4. One goal: eMagine. Of course, it's all subjective. But I'm going to work until I don't even know what the word "work" means in order to win this thing. We can do it.
5. It's crazy to think that one semester has passed already. Screw the mentality that, "oh, you have senior year to develop your skills and do all the important stuff." No! The time is now. The time is NOW. I can't just sit on my cushy computer chair right now and expect for things to magically get better, for me to magically make an amazing film. Junior year is just as important as senior year, if not more important. And I plan on making some wild stuff with the time remaining.
"Zeit" is the name of our original concept. The idea consisted of three acquaintances, going on a road trip. Along the way, they have to backtrack and end up getting stuck in a hole: time, or "Zeit". Every time they move forward, time progresses. And the other way around. A complicated concept, nevertheless, but a doable one. Brett wrote the original screenplay, running around 30 pages or so.
Process
Pre-production: Aidan, Emily, and I all worked on the storyboards. Yes, it took that many people to complete. Darby and Brett worked on the shot list, and curated the script. Darby worked to get actors and Brett worked on location scouting. Brett was the director, Emily and Aidan cinematographer, Darby was casting and art direction, and I was the editor. We had a week to shoot. Considering actor conflicts, extra-curriculur stuff, editing time, and the length of the film, we were given another week to create the film.
Production: We shot around 7 or 8 days, 4 or more hours at a time. A lot of shooting! We traveled a lot of places to shoot, whether 50 minutes across Kansas or next door at Brett's house. Everyone tried to incorporate creative lighting and angles into the film. I worked with lighting gels, specifically, to emphasize the certain emotions in the scene. I also did other necessary jobs ranging from placing props to being a "stuntman".
Post-production: Holy cow. At least five days of editing can drive a person insane. I worked endless hours piecing together this insanely long piece. I know the film by heart now... is that a good thing? Goes both ways. I worked with the sound and music as well. Brett was the colorist, naturally.
Role
As I explained, I was the editor and Brett was the colorist. I worked endless hours in Premiere Pro, often dealing with crashes. Fun. The fact that this film was the longest piece I've ever edited says something. I also was the on-set sort of "PA", if you will, and also was the gaffer, working with lighting to set the tone, as well as the DP when Emily and Aidan couldn't be there. I learned more about using lighting gels and also learned more with Premiere Pro. So, yes, the hardware and software department are sound.
Five Guarantees
Technical skills: I learned a lot more about camera, as I was the backup guy when Aidan and Emily couldn't be there. I learned about the types of lenses, aperture, fps, etc. On the editing side of things, I developed a new organizational style in Premiere because the film was so long. It needed it. Bins, black video for shots we didn't have yet, etc.
Communication: Our group worked together really well and had good contact on schedule, shot list, etc. We communicated on set great as well. The film flowed together this way.
Leadership: I was a leader in my own role. Everyone is a leader, I believe. I led the editing department and tried to lift everyone up even if we were stressed about time or shots not working out. I helped as far as doing whatever needed to be done on set to ensure success.
Collaboration: Our group collaborated really well together. Everyone knew their position and what was expected of them. We discussed the shots and the angles at which we would shoot from. Everyone threw in ideas of what would and wouldn't work. We also cut a lot.
Project Management: Even though we did not meet the intended deadline of one week, almost every group did not. So we refocused to meet a new deadline... and in that, I feel that we did. Considering the monstrosity of our short film and the amount of effort it took.
Different/Same
Different: Less black space between shots. It gets annoying after a while, but every director has his own style, so I respect that. Also, I would go back and re-do a few shots, as well as help better the audio. The ending scenes I would've liked to capture more of, as we cut a lot.
Same: The coloring and lighting of the shots are one aspect in which I think our group did well. It really added to the emotion of the scene. I also liked the music and would keep the same. The shots were framed well for the most part.
Experiences/Conclusions
I learned a lot from being in a group full of upperclassmen. They knew their stuff. In practically every area. It was an amazing experience to get to know all the types of people in our group and we had some really crazy events take place during filming. But that's what makes film fun, right? I'll take my newfound skills in camerawork and lighting to enhance my next project.
All in all, this project was definitely the biggest film I've ever worked on. But, I feel like this experience will prepare me for future films and in that regard, I feel complete.
For this project, we were to do another music video, although hopefully better than last year. We chose "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King. The concept was changed several times, but we finally arrived on the idea circled around three friends having a good time on their last day before one of the friends moves away. Our director, Aidan, was inspired by the movie "Stand By Me" for this video.
Process
Pre-production: We ran through several concepts (almost one too many) but finally settled on one after a few days. The storyboard was very detailed and the beat sheet was as well. We created a prop list and actor list in order to prepare for everything.
Production: We filmed throughout several days and on short intervals... it was surprising that we made it! Everybody handled the responsibility of cinematographer, more or less. Anything to get the shot. Our actors were pretty much our whole group, mind Max Cooper.
Post-Production: Our editor, Brett, did a fantastic job in editing the video in as little as two days. He had a short window to work with but handled it well, and the result definitely reflects that.
Learn/Skills
I learned how important time management is and the importance of location scouting. I also learned how to better my camera techniques. We used technical skills in the area of cinematography and editing, communication in arriving on location and getting props, leadership in directing the video and taking charge of the short amount of time, collaboration in working all together to create an amazing film with time constraints, and project management in completing the video on time.
Different/Same
I wasn't there for the entire shoot, so the shots indoors I would re-do. Also, some of the shots go in and out of focus because they were on auto mode so I would re-do those as well. Other than that, I would keep everything else the same. The fades between shots really matched well in this video, but might not for every video. I would maybe edit it a little differently, but not much.
Experiences/Conclusions
I will draw the project management I learned in this film to be used in my next project. The minimal time that we had still turned out to be a great product. It goes to show that you have to make the most of the time you are given in order to be completely satisfied with the end result. All in all, I am very pleased with this project and can't wait to get into shorts and features.
Paul Simon had a simplistic vision for this music video. He obviously didn't have a massive budget for this but still ended up creating a very unique film. Basically, Chevy Chase was acting as Paul Simon, singing the entirety of the song. Randomly, Paul would get up and grab different instruments while Chase continued to belt the tune.
Principles of Design/Analyze
The cinematography was probably the weakest part of this video. But who's to blame? The story flowed and the acting was certainly the strong suit. Lighting was very well done because all things on screen could be seen. The writing and planning was strong as well because the story clearly was natural and comedic in its own way. Direction in this music video was fantastic. The actors knew what they were doing and when to do it.
Story
The story, in a nutshell, was the comedic way that Chevy Chase was singing the song instead of Paul Simon. Simon would also bring out various instruments used throughout the song and implement them that way. It was told through a one shot, or close to one shot, video. Yet, many things were going on at once and having one shot didn't really hamper the video at all.
Elements
I would apply the amazing direction and unique story into my films. Lots of planning went into this beforehand and I need to work on my pre-production skills like in the video. One thing I've learned is the importance of something needing to be going on during a still shot like this. Because so much action was involved, it didn't need to have a ton of shots.
Strengths/Weaknesses
The creator did well on all areas such as lighting, writing, directing, editing, and acting. It was entertaining, in my opinion, and kept the viewer engaged. Cinematography could be improved, though, because the shots were a little long even though Chevy was singing the entire time. Of course, this was back in the era and Paul didn't have a lot to work with.
Conclusions
Overall, this video was well made. Simon and Chase acted well and made this a fun video to watch. It had a simple yet interesting story, and I will apply these techniques to my own future projects.
MLA Format: YouTube, YouTube, 16 June 2011, www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq-gYOrU8bA.
For this project, our group consisted of three juniors and two seniors: Aidan, Kevin, myself, Darby, and Brett. We chose to present Colgate products in our commercial. To tell the truth, I'm not even sure how we came to Colgate. It just happened. As far as the concept for the script, our original idea was to have a guy walking alone at night, suddenly get murdered, and the Colgate ad would appear. The non-sequitur was hilarious when we originally talked about it. Soon, we realized it wasn't such a strong idea. So, that night, I thought and thought and thought and finally fell upon the "Pyscho" shower scene. Good ideas just fall into your head sometimes. The next day, I presented it to the group and it was better received than the original concept. We were to have a guy walk into the bathroom, get into the shower, and get attacked by a guy with a.... toothbrush. Hence the product.
Process
Darby and Brett were in charge of the storyboard, while Aidan, Kevin, and I were working on the script. Aidan was the director, Kevin was the editor, Darby was the production designer, Brett was the DP, and I was the all-around man. Co-director, co-editor... whatever you'd like to call it. We were set to film on the weekend and edit all week. We filmed on a Saturday at Brett's grandparent's house. It took around 3-4 hours to film, but luckily it was all in one setting. Filming was the best part, although it was pretty hot in the bathroom. During editing, we pretty much let Kevin work his magic with us occasionally visiting his office to provide feedback and help. The final product went through several changes and had to be cut by at least 10 seconds. I also suggested that we add jazz music to the beginning to create a peaceful atmosphere before the killing.
I Learned Things (5 Guarantees)
I helped to co-direct the commercial and provide input on the layout of shots and such during production. In post-production, I helped Kevin a lot with problem areas needing to be addressed. I learned communication skills in partnering up with seniors/people I haven't worked with. I also learned more technical skills in making a film that was black and white and helping someone else with editing. I bettered my leadership skills by directing Max, our lead actor, and organizing the final concept. As far as project management, we turned in the commercial on time. So that's a plus. I learned to collaborate with several other like-minded people that I've never met before!
Different/Same
We would make it clear that the toothbrush was the attack weapon. For the people that have seen "Psycho", I think they got that. But, for the non-Hitchcockians, that reference went over their head. So we could clearly display the toothbrush in the hand of the killer. I really liked how it turned out, though, so I wouldn't change much.
Objectives
We emotionally connected to the Hitchcock lovers. But someone was being killed, so not much else. We didn't give a lot of information on the product, but it was a toothbrush so there's not much to tell. Our group called people to action when the actor smelled his breath but decided against brushing his teeth. Brush your teeth people! There wasn't much positive association with a murder, but try your best to find some. You'll definitely trust Colgate now that a killer toothbrush man could come and get you for not brushing. The script was really strong and we relied on it most of the production time, so we used writing effectively. Aidan was a great director and implemented his knowledge of film into the project. For audio, we didn't need much as we used music and audio from the Psycho film. The lighting was well done because it was in a bathroom. Brett did a great job as a cinematographer and I feel that aspect was strong. Kevin was a good listener and editor, so our final project reflected that.
Conclusion
Overall, I really enjoyed this project and the people I got to work with. We worked well together and the result certainly shows that. Now I'm inspired to create more commercials in the future!
1. The goal of this project was to research a designated designer and write about how he/she influenced the design world. I had Paul Rand, designer of the Ford and ABC logos. We also were to design a poster that would be displayed at the Nelson Atkins museum.
2. The entirety of this project took quite a while. It was more or less two months.
3. Some of the challenges I faced were cutting out the image of Paul Rand in Photoshop and cutting out his logos as well. That was the hardest part of the project.
4. I was given feedback on the order of information on the poster, so I changed the hierarchy of the address, phone number, etc.
5. I got better acquainted with Photoshop and learned how to create an appealing poster for people visiting the museum.
6. I changed the fonts around a couple of times until the handwritten style matched the theme.
7. I'm proud of this project, as it looks like an exhibit I would want to go see.
Typography Quotes
1. The goal of this project was to pick four of your favorite quotes and turn them into a design that you would put on your wall.
2. This project took around a month to complete.
3. I faced challenges on deciding what color combinations to use.
4. I learned more about illustrator and how to arrange typography in certain ways. I also learned to put emphasis on certain words in the poster.
5. I was given feedback on the color on certain posters; I needed more variety.
6. So, I changed the Steven Spielberg & Mel Brooks boards to resemble a more lively color scheme.
7. I'm proud of these posters as these are some of my favorite quotes and I feel that the typography matches with the tone.
Logo Rebrand
1. For this project, we were to find a small company whose logo could use some rebranding. I chose C3 Marketing, my aunt's company.
2. This project lasted from the middle of April until the end of this year.
3. I faced challenges regarding which black concept logo to rebrand in color and sometimes faced challenges in finding sufficient mockups.
4. I learned a lot more about mockups in Photoshop and how to design a letterhead, business card, and envelope in case I need to do that in the future.
5. I was given feedback on my color rebrand of the C3 logo, so I made it simple, sticking with two colors.
6. I didn't change much. The one thing I could remember for next time would be to decrease the margin in the letterhead.
7. Because I had a personal tie to the company, I really liked this project and the result that followed. I feel that C3 Marketing has some decisions to make regarding their logo!
Use of Time
1. I feel that I have used my time in graphic design efficiently, as I finish my work on time, turn it in to the right location, etc. When I'm done, I check with Mr. Mason for his opinion and then wrap up things from there.
2. If I finish early, like I said, I check with Mr. Mason and make corrections based on the feedback. After that, I upload it to Behance. I make sure everything looks coordinated and clean on bechance.
3. If there is a project that I cannot simply get done in class, I make sure to work outside of class. This wasn't the case for this semester, but last semester I worked on my vector outside of class.
Strengths & Weaknesses
I feel that my strengths and simplicity and cleanliness with designing a logo. For instance, I implemented these strengths while designing the Paul Rand poster and my C3 color rebrand. As far as areas for improvement, I could continue to get more familiar with Photoshop and the wide variety of tools in Illustrator. To improve this, I could work on other projects outside of class.
Summary
1. The project I loved most about the semester would have to be the C3 Marketing rebrand. Since my aunt is the head of the company, I wanted to design something tangible for her to look at and see what I'm doing in school.
2. I would change my typography posters (certain ones) if I had the chance. Changing the color schemes would be on my agenda.
3. I learned a lot more about graphic design and I feel that this class is valuable to what I will be doing later on. The number one thing I learned: DON'T use computer-generated fonts. Don't. Unless it's for a paper, don't.
4. I would like to set a goal to implement my skills learned this year into my video projects later on. You know, the next movie to shatter the box office. Be ready.
5. Graphic design is certainly useful in all aspects, and I can use that to my advantage to make my video portfolio even better.
